RecruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Testicular Evaluation of Azoospermia Using Micro-Ultrasound

This study is exploring a new type of very detailed ultrasound, called micro-ultrasound, to examine the testicles of men who have no sperm in their ejaculate (a condition called azoospermia). Current ultrasound scans aren't detailed enough to see the tiny tubes inside the testicles where sperm are made. This new technology can see much smaller structures. Researchers want to find out if this improved scan can help identify differences in these tubes, which could tell them more about the cause of azoospermia. Ultimately, if successful, this could make it easier to find sperm in men needing fertility treatment and help doctors decide the best way forward.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Sponsor

Paul Shin

Enrolment target

Start

01 May 2025

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2025

Azoospermia

What is this study about?

This study is looking into a new way to examine the testicles using a very advanced type of ultrasound called micro-ultrasound. Most ultrasounds used today aren't detailed enough to see the tiny tubes inside the testicles where sperm are produced. However, micro-ultrasound offers a much clearer picture, potentially allowing doctors to see these small structures.

The main goal is to see if this new scan can help doctors understand why some men have azoospermia, which means there are no sperm in their ejaculate. By looking closely at the testicles of men with azoospermia and also men with normal fertility, researchers hope to spot differences that could help with diagnosis. For example, in men whose azoospermia is due to a blockage (obstructive azoospermia), they expect to see normal sperm-producing tubes. In contrast, in men where sperm isn't being made properly (non-obstructive azoospermia), they might see a mix of normal and shrunken tubes.

If this study is successful, it could make a big difference for men considering fertility treatments. Currently, finding sperm often involves a surgical procedure. If the micro-ultrasound can accurately pinpoint where healthy sperm-producing areas are located, it could make these procedures simpler, reduce the amount of surgery needed, and potentially increase the chances of finding sperm. It could also help men and their doctors make more informed decisions about treatment options.

Key takeaways

This study uses a new, very detailed ultrasound to look at testicles.
It aims to help understand why some men have no sperm (azoospermia).
Findings could make sperm retrieval for fertility treatments easier and less invasive.
The study compares men with azoospermia and men with normal fertility.
It's a feasibility study, meaning it's testing if the new method works.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be a male assigned at birth, aged 18 or older. You could be considered if you have azoospermia, which means there's no sperm in your ejaculate. This includes men who have had a vasectomy and have no sperm afterwards.

Also, men who are about to have a vasectomy can join, provided they have proven they can naturally father children or have a normal sperm count. This helps the researchers compare the results with fertile men.

You cannot take part if you have previously had a specific type of testicular surgery called "microdissection" or if you have a condition called "hypogonadotropic hypogonadism."

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you male and 18 years or older?
Do you have azoospermia (no sperm in your ejaculate)?
OR are you about to have a vasectomy and know you are fertile?
Have you NOT had previous microdissection surgery on your testicles?
Do you NOT have hypogonadotropic hypogonadism?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

This is a small study designed to see if a new technique works. If you take part, you would have a special micro-ultrasound scan of your testicles. This scan is similar to a regular ultrasound but uses more advanced technology to get a very detailed picture. The study aims to compare images from men with azoospermia and men with normal fertility. There are no medications involved and no long-term follow-up beyond the scan itself. The total duration of your participation would likely be limited to the single visit for the scan.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could offer the potential benefit of helping researchers develop better tools for diagnosing and treating male infertility in the future, which could ultimately help other men. As this involves an ultrasound scan, there are generally very few risks, as it's a non-invasive procedure, meaning no needles or cuts are involved. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, which will not affect your future medical care.

Locations (2)

Shady Grove Fertility
Verified postcode
Rockville, United States· Recruiting
University of Alberta
Verified postcode
Edmonton, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is azoospermia?

Azoospermia is a medical condition where there is no sperm found in a man's ejaculate (semen).

What is a micro-ultrasound?

A micro-ultrasound is a very high-resolution ultrasound scan that can see much smaller details inside the body compared to standard ultrasounds.

Why is this study important?

This study could help doctors better understand the causes of azoospermia and make it easier to find sperm for fertility treatments, potentially making procedures less invasive.

Will this study cure my azoospermia?

No, this is a research study to investigate a new imaging technique. It's not a treatment, but its findings could lead to improved treatments in the future.

Is the micro-ultrasound scan painful?

Ultrasound scans are generally not painful. It involves a probe being placed on the skin, similar to a regular ultrasound.

How to find out more

Paul R Shin, MD

paul.shin@sgfertility.com 202-296-2595 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.